Liverpool target Diego Costa ruins ex-Spurs star Gareth Bale's home debut in Madrid derby

ATLETICO MADRID striker Diego Costa showed why Liverpool were so keen to sign him by scoring the winner against Real Madrid to scupper former Tottenham star Gareth Bale's home debut.

Gareth Bale, Cristiano Ronaldo and Isco look dejected as Real Madrid lose to rivals Atletico [AP]

Costa admitted he was close to joining Liverpool this summer, but stayed at Atletico and has hit form with eight goals in his last seven games.

Costa's goal ruined Bale's Bernabeu bow, who could not stop his new side falling to defeat.

Atletico's big win came after Lionel Messi scored before being substituted due to injury to help Barcelona win 2-0 at Almeria. 

Diego Costa is in a spectacular moment. He has helped us a lot

Atletico Madrid's Koke

Barcelona and Atletico set club records by staying perfect through seven games to start the season, opening up a five-point gap over Real.

Messi and Diego Costa have guided their teams to their milestones and lead the league with eight goals each.
 
"We are having a great year and we have to keep it going," said Atletico's Koke, who set up Diego Costa's goal.

"Diego Costa is in a spectacular moment. He has helped us a lot." 

Diego Costa - a summer target for Liverpool - scores Atletico Madrid's winner [REUTERS]